McLaren and Max Verstappen are heading into the title fight with strategy set to play a major role. With the Qatar track making overtaking harder than expected, teams must turn to smart planning rather than pure on-track moves. Every decision will matter as the championship battle tightens.
Because passing opportunities are limited, pit-stop timing becomes crucial. Under-cuts, over-cuts, and tyre management could decide the outcome more than outright speed. Drivers who read the race well may gain positions even without overtakes.
Verstappen’s Red Bull may rely on aggressive stints to move forward, using tyre durability and clean air whenever possible. If he can build gaps or pressure rivals into early stops, strategy could become his biggest weapon. Precision and timing will be vital.
McLaren, on the other hand, might favour controlled, defensive strategies. With strong qualifying pace, they can protect track position and force others to react first. Managing tyre wear and keeping a consistent rhythm could help them stay ahead in a race where holding position is key.
Pirelli has also published possible strategy predictions for the Qatar Grand Prix, giving teams a clearer picture of the tyre options. With overtaking limited, these strategic choices may shape the showdown between Verstappen and McLaren more than anything else.
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